The School of Basic Medical Sciences (SBMS) has today, May 7, 2024, conducted a session for Level 300 Physiotherapy and Nursing students on menstrual hygiene. The session was delivered in the ultra-modern common room of Skyline University Nigeria (SUN) to educate the students on the need for proper menstrual hygiene management.
In his opening remarks, the Dean of the School of Basic Medical Sciences (SBMS), Dr. Isa Usman, explained that hygiene is very important, especially for youth. He said menstrual hygiene is proven to be effective in protecting women from contracting infections that might have short or long-term effects.
Delivering the session, Ms. Fatima Musa Aliyu, a registered nurse from the Department of Nursing at Bayero University Kano (BUK), explained that menstrual hygiene has been deeply impacted by myths, cultural beliefs and customs. Some of these cultural barriers have prevented women and young girls from practicing hygienic cycles and proper management of themselves.
She added that women have succumbed to mental breakdown and low self-esteem in addition to the natural hormonal challenges that manifest in women’s lives during the monthly cycle. In some communities, “menstrual flow is even associated with black magic and other ritual activities that force women to seclude themselves,” she said.
Ms. Aliyu emphasized the need for women to be changing pads and other related hygiene products at least after four to eight hours to protect themselves from infection. She highlighted that improper menstrual hygiene management could lead to rashes, pelvic inflammatory diseases, irritations and redness, among others.
Speaking during the session, the Director of Government and Public Relations, Ms. Sarada Maganti, said that the topic is very critical and indeed timely for the students. She added that the students are privileged to learn and share the right information from experts. She also explained how women’s health contributes to societal development.
Ms. Aliyu concluded by emphasizing the need for using reusable pads for environmental sustainability and the availability of hygiene management in public and private places to ensure women adhere to hygienic routines.
In his concluding remarks, Mr. Sirajo Mujittapha Umar, a lecturer in the School of Basic Medical Sciences (SBMS), appreciated the guest speaker for her excellent presentation. He said the information delivered to the students will be of lifelong benefit to them.